Regardless of whether you are a novice outdoorsman or an experienced camper, you will find a myriad of opportunities for camping in Tennessee. Check out our compilation of sites, which includes both the developed and primitive campsites that can be found in each of the state’s three regions.
East Tennessee
The Appalachian Mountains dominate East Tennessee and make a beautiful backdrop for camping. With the area’s crystal-clear creeks, scenic mountain vistas, vibrant waterfalls and fields of wildflowers, you can enjoy your time sleeping under the stars just about anywhere in East Tennessee.
One of the most popular places for camping in Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park includes camping opportunities for all experience levels. The park offers 10 developed front-country camping sites complete with amenities and RV hookups as well as dozens of backcountry camping sites and primitive shelters. You will need a reservation for developed sites, and backcountry campers must get permits from the park’s Backcountry Information Office.
Located in Kingsport, Warriors’ Path State Park offers excellent camping accommodations for families. You will find 134 developed campsites along with a pool, playgrounds, a lake, hiking trails, a disc golf course and horses. The park is located within a mile or two of grocery stores and other amenities. To reserve your spot, visit the campground’s website.
Middle Tennessee
The Cumberland Plateau makes up much of the eastern portion of Middle Tennessee. Further west, the land becomes less hilly, but camping opportunities abound near the Volunteer State’s lakes and rivers.
Fall Creek Falls State Park offers family-friendly campsites as well as zip lining, swimming, boating, golfing, hiking and horseback riding. The park has 222 developed sites with water, electricity, tables and grills, and most of the park’s campgrounds are handicapped-accessible. Backcountry campers can also take advantage of 16 primitive campsites within the park.
About 30 minutes from downtown Nashville, the Harpeth River area provides excellent hiking and camping in Harpeth River State Park. You will find paved tent sites and amenities like hot showers, dumping stations, picnic shelters and a playground. To get some quality time on the river, consider canoeing the 12 miles from the TN-250 Bridge to the various campsites.
Find out more about camping in Tennessee.
West Tennessee
The Natchez Trace Parkway winds its way through West Tennessee, Alabama and Mississippi. The National Park Service maintains the route and provides three primitive campgrounds along the parkway. There is no electricity, but there are bathrooms with water available in the summer.
Additional campgrounds are available for those who are riding through on bicycles. Five bicycle-only campgrounds are spaced between 30 and 60 miles apart along the Natchez Trace. These sites offer picnic tables, tent pads, fire grates and restrooms.
With cabins for rent, a lodge, golf course, marina, restaurant and other amenities, Pickwick Landing State Park is a great place to camp. You can also take advantage of tent camping in 75 sites in the Bruton Branch Recreation Area. If you like to hike, you can explore Bear Creek Canyon, which is located just across the state line in Mississippi.
Regardless of which part of Tennessee you’re from or your camping comfort level, there are plenty of opportunities statewide when you want to find time to relax in the great outdoors.
Tell us, do you have a favorite spot to go camping?
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